Department of Sociology

How can we understand the world around us, and our place within it? What responsibilities do we have as members of society? How might we make it a better place?

Understanding Society

Sociologists study a wide range of social phenomena, including culture and emotions, prejudice and discrimination, poverty and inequality, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, and the organization of the family, religion, education, healthcare, and criminal justice systems. We examine the origins and consequences of war, empire, capitalism, urbanization, climate change, and human displacement, as well as how individuals and groups express agency and pursue collective action.

Preparing for Change

At Cal State LA Sociology, you will gain a rich appreciation of the complexity and diversity of social contexts shaping and shaped by individuals, institutions, and societies across the globe. You'll cultivate research and writing skills, engage with communities of Los Angeles, and promote solutions for pressing social problems. Our curriculum will help prepare you for graduate and professional school, as well as a variety of careers in research, public policy, education, social work, counseling, urban planning, and more.